The New York Mets are facing a series of challenges as they approach the 2025 MLB season, with injuries impacting key players across their roster. Notably, outfielders Brandon Nimmo and top prospect Drew Gilbert are dealing with health concerns, while infielder Jeff McNeil is set to begin the season on the injured list. Amid these setbacks, the team is also integrating a $15 million pitcher into their rotation.
Brandon Nimmo’s Ongoing Recovery
Brandon Nimmo, a central figure in the Mets’ outfield, has been grappling with knee soreness and lingering effects of plantar fasciitis, which was re-aggravated during the National League Division Series last October. After a period of rest and rehabilitation, Nimmo returned to left field in a Grapefruit League game against the Tampa Bay Rays on March 17. This marked his first outfield appearance since February 28. While his return is a positive development, questions remain about his readiness for Opening Day. Nimmo has expressed uncertainty about starting the season as a designated hitter or in the outfield, emphasizing the need to be near full health to avoid being a liability on the field.
Drew Gilbert’s Delayed Debut
Top outfield prospect Drew Gilbert is also on a cautious path to recovery. After missing a significant portion of the 2024 minor league season due to a hamstring injury, the Mets are deliberately easing him back into action. Reports indicate that Gilbert may miss the entirety of spring training but is expected to be ready for the minor league Opening Day. The organization’s patient approach reflects a broader strategy to ensure long-term health and performance of their prospects.
Jeff McNeil’s Oblique Strain
In the infield, All-Star Jeff McNeil is set to open the season on the injured list due to a strained right oblique. The injury, considered low-grade, will sideline him for approximately three to four weeks. McNeil, who won the National League batting title in 2022, played primarily at second base last season but also contributed in the corner outfield positions. His absence creates a void in both the infield and outfield, adding to the team’s challenges.
Integrating a $15 Million Pitcher
Amid these injury concerns, the Mets are integrating Clay Holmes, a former All-Star reliever who signed a three-year, $15 million contract, into their starting rotation. Holmes has successfully transitioned to a starting role during spring training, culminating in a standout performance against the St. Louis Cardinals where he pitched 5 1/3 scoreless innings with eight strikeouts, finishing the exhibition season with a 0.93 ERA. His preparation began in mid-January under a specific plan devised by the Mets’ staff, and his efforts have earned him the role of Opening Day starter. Holmes’ ability to adapt and perform in this new capacity is a bright spot for the Mets as they navigate their current challenges.
Roster Adjustments and Opening Day Outlook
With these developments, the Mets are making necessary roster adjustments as they approach Opening Day on March 27. The starting rotation is expected to feature Clay Holmes, Kodai Senga, David Peterson, Griffin Canning, and Tylor Megill. The bullpen has one remaining spot to be filled, with seven positions already set. In the infield, Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, and Mark Vientos are confirmed starters, while Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuña, and Donovan Walton are competing for two openings. The outfield configuration depends on Brandon Nimmo’s fitness, with options including Juan Soto, Jose Siri, Tyrone Taylor, Jesse Winker, and Starling Marte. Catcher Luis Torrens is slated to start, with Hayden Senger likely serving as the backup.
As the Mets prepare to open their season against the Houston Astros, they face the dual challenge of managing injuries and integrating new talent. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these obstacles will be critical in their pursuit of success in the 2025 MLB season.
The New York Mets are facing a series of challenges as they approach the 2025 MLB season, with injuries impacting key players across their roster. Notably, outfielders Brandon Nimmo and top prospect Drew Gilbert are dealing with health concerns, while infielder Jeff McNeil is set to begin the season on the injured list. Amid these setbacks, the team is also integrating a $15 million pitcher into their rotation.
Brandon Nimmo’s Ongoing Recovery
Brandon Nimmo, a central figure in the Mets’ outfield, has been grappling with knee soreness and lingering effects of plantar fasciitis, which was re-aggravated during the National League Division Series last October. After a period of rest and rehabilitation, Nimmo returned to left field in a Grapefruit League game against the Tampa Bay Rays on March 17. This marked his first outfield appearance since February 28. While his return is a positive development, questions remain about his readiness for Opening Day. Nimmo has expressed uncertainty about starting the season as a designated hitter or in the outfield, emphasizing the need to be near full health to avoid being a liability on the field.
Drew Gilbert’s Delayed Debut
Top outfield prospect Drew Gilbert is also on a cautious path to recovery. After missing a significant portion of the 2024 minor league season due to a hamstring injury, the Mets are deliberately easing him back into action. Reports indicate that Gilbert may miss the entirety of spring training but is expected to be ready for the minor league Opening Day. The organization’s patient approach reflects a broader strategy to ensure long-term health and performance of their prospects.
Jeff McNeil’s Oblique Strain
In the infield, All-Star Jeff McNeil is set to open the season on the injured list due to a strained right oblique. The injury, considered low-grade, will sideline him for approximately three to four weeks. McNeil, who won the National League batting title in 2022, played primarily at second base last season but also contributed in the corner outfield positions. His absence creates a void in both the infield and outfield, adding to the team’s challenges.
Integrating a $15 Million Pitcher
Amid these injury concerns, the Mets are integrating Clay Holmes, a former All-Star reliever who signed a three-year, $15 million contract, into their starting rotation. Holmes has successfully transitioned to a starting role during spring training, culminating in a standout performance against the St. Louis Cardinals where he pitched 5 1/3 scoreless innings with eight strikeouts, finishing the exhibition season with a 0.93 ERA. His preparation began in mid-January under a specific plan devised by the Mets’ staff, and his efforts have earned him the role of Opening Day starter. Holmes’ ability to adapt and perform in this new capacity is a bright spot for the Mets as they navigate their current challenges.
Roster Adjustments and Opening Day Outlook
With these developments, the Mets are making necessary roster adjustments as they approach Opening Day on March 27. The starting rotation is expected to feature Clay Holmes, Kodai Senga, David Peterson, Griffin Canning, and Tylor Megill. The bullpen has one remaining spot to be filled, with seven positions already set. In the infield, Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, and Mark Vientos are confirmed starters, while Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuña, and Donovan Walton are competing for two openings. The outfield configuration depends on Brandon Nimmo’s fitness, with options including Juan Soto, Jose Siri, Tyrone Taylor, Jesse Winker, and Starling Marte. Catcher Luis Torrens is slated to start, with Hayden Senger likely serving as the backup.
As the Mets prepare to open their season against the Houston Astros, they face the dual challenge of managing injuries and integrating new talent. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these obstacles will be critical in their pursuit of success in the 2025 MLB season.
